Who In the World Is Gene Hickerson?

by Jack Borders

This is an exciting time for football fans as we look forward to seeing how our favorite teams will perform this season. We toss around names like Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Derrick Henry, and many other popular players. If we think back to the 70s, names like Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and Lynn Swann come to mind. Fans from the 50s and 60s remember legendary running back Jim Brown. Then there is Gene Hickerson. Gene Hickerson? Who in the world is Gene Hickerson?

Gene Hickerson played right guard for the Cleveland Browns from 1958-1973. In his time with the Browns, Hickerson anchored the offensive line, leading the way for running backs Jim Brown, Bobby Mitchell, and Leroy Kelly. Behind the blocking of Hickerson and the other linemen, Brown led the league in rushing eight years and Kelly led the league for two years. Brown, Mitchell, and Kelly were all three inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. While these three running backs are well known by football fans, no one seems to know the name of Gene Hickerson.

In 2007, Hickerson was finally inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. Confined to a wheelchair, he was pushed on stage by Jim Brown, Bobby Michell, and Leroy Kelly—once again leading the way for the star running backs.

Offensive linemen labor in the trenches doing an important job, their names often unknown by the average fan. Likewise, many of us have roles serving the body of Christ behind the scenes unnoticed. However, like Gene Hickerson, our roles are equally important as those serving in the forefront—each one performing their duty for the glory of God.

Everyone sees the pastor and the singers. Yet, we cannot forget the importance of those we do not see, such as the Audio Team working to allow us to hear clearly. We must not forget those who empty the trash, vacuum the carpet, and clean the bathrooms. Equal honor should be bestowed on those who greet visitors and take care of the groundskeeping. There is a place for all of us and we are all important to the furtherance of the kingdom.

About The Author Jack Borders is a Christ follower, husband, father, grandfather and caregiver living in Cleveland, Tennessee.

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